Should I buy a Daihatsu Copen or will it be problematic to source spares?

I wish to buy an inexpensive convertible and have been seduced by the cute looks of the Daihatsu Copen. However I understand that Daihatsu no longer markets cars in the UK. Will this mean servicing and spares availability become difficult? If so, what would you recommend?

Asked on 19 October 2013 by RP, via email

Answered by Honest John

The original Copen had a 660cc Suzuki turbo engine, but this was later replaced by the 1.3-litre four cylinder engine from the Toyota Yaris. Yes, if you have a problem you will have to wait for parts. If you have a crash you may have a very long wait indeed. Sensibly, nothing beats a Mazda MX-5, a 1.8 if you don't need the performance of a 2.0-litre. But the bargain sportscar is an MGTF 1.6 or 1.8. Caterham has just launched a Seven with Suzuki’s 660cc turbo engine so that should improve UK parts availability.

Tags: spare parts performance convertibles sports cars

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